First aid care for anaphylaxis

Anaphylaxis is basically a severe allergic reaction and potentially fatal if not treated promptly. This reaction typically occurs when an individual with a severe allergy is exposed to a particular allergen particularly insect stings, food or medication. Anaphylaxis is a medical emergency that entails immediate emergency care.

During a mild allergic reaction, the symptoms typically occur in one particular area. It is different with anaphylaxis since the symptoms involve more than one bodily system, particularly the respiratory and circulatory system. This will trigger the manifestation of symptoms in just minutes after exposure to the potential triggers but can also be delayed for some time.

Risk factors for anaphylaxis

If in doubt, you have to administer a shot of the epinephrine auto-injector.

Even today, there is no test that can accurately predict when anaphylaxis will occur. This is the reason why a doctor should be consulted. It is important to note that there are risk factors that can put an individual at higher risk for developing anaphylaxis.

Those who experienced a previous anaphylactic reaction

A reaction that develops when the skin came in contact with an allergen

Severe symptoms (Anaphylaxis)

First aid for anaphylaxis

If an individual shows any symptoms of anaphylaxis, there are steps that you should follow in order to properly care for the individual.

Initially, you have to stay with the individual and call for help. You can provide any medications for mild reactions that have been prescribed to the individual such as antihistamine. In case any severe symptoms are present, the following must be done:

Position the individual flat (if breathing is difficult, allow him/her to sit but do not allow to walk or stand)

Remember that an additional dose of epinephrine can be given if there is no response after 5 minutes.

If in doubt, you have to administer a shot of the epinephrine auto-injector. Once anaphylaxis is suspected, do not delay in administering epinephrine if available. This is the initial treatment of anaphylaxis even before oxygen and other resuscitation measures. Once given, bring the individual to the nearest emergency department for further care.